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10 Must-Have Furniture Pieces That Make or Break Your Shortlet or Airbnb Apartment in Nigeria
In today’s real estate market, shortlet and Airbnb apartments are fast becoming the goldmine of modern property investment—especially in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. With more Nigerians and tourists choosing short stays over hotels, the demand for stylish, comfortable, and well-furnished shortlet spaces has skyrocketed.
But here’s the truth: having a great location is no longer enough. Guests are looking for convenience, aesthetics, and the full “home away from home” experience.
And guess what determines that experience faster than your welcome message or amenities?
Your furniture.
Yes. You heard me. Your furniture is the silent salesman that convinces a guest to click book now, leave a glowing review, refer a friend, or never come back.
This means that the kind of furniture you put in your shortlet apartment can literally make or break your bookings. Whether you’re just setting up your unit or looking to upgrade your space, this guide highlights the must-have furniture pieces every successful shortlet apartment should include.
1. A Statement Sofa Set (Durable & Instagram-Worthy)
Trust me, a statement sofa set will make you win this big game of client acquisition and retention. This is because guests will most likely spend a lot of time lounging in the living room, so a modern, comfortable, and photo-worthy sofa creates that first lasting impression.
When making a choice for sofa colours, choose a neutral or bold colour depending on your style, but make sure it’s easy to clean and durable enough to survive heavy usage.
This is a sofa set we made for a shortlet in Ikeja. This beautiful sofa is minimal and makes guests want to snap and share, which means more eyes on your space—for free.
At CMC Interiors, we customize sofas that fit your exact space and theme, so your apartment becomes instantly memorable.
2. A Quality Bed with a Strong Frame
If there’s one thing that gives your clients a great experience, it is the quality of their sleep. A creaky, sagging bed can instantly ruin their entire stay.
When launching into the shortlet/airbnb game, do well to invest in quality and comfortable mattress, and throw in plush pillows with clean white or neutral beddings.
We installed a visually appealing, sturdy bed frame with matching bedside drawers in an Ikeja shortlet, which is now booked for the next 2 months. This bed gives the guest a sense of security and comfort—and that’s what keeps them coming back.
At CMC Interiors and Furniture, we build beds that last and look premium, giving your apartment that luxury edge without breaking your budget.
3. Compact and Stylish Dining Set
Even if your shortlet apartment is small, guests appreciate a place to eat besides the bed or sofa. A 2- or 4-seater dining set gives your space a homely touch. Choose sleek designs that fit into small spaces without compromising elegance.
We installed a square marble-top 4-seater dining set in a small shortlet apartment making it feel like a mini hotel. This Dining set creates multi-use functionality in the shortlet, which guests value more than they even realize.
This design is compact, elegant and fits tight spaces — so that no matter the size, you can still impress.
4. Workspace or Reading Nook
More guests (especially remote workers and digital nomads) are choosing shortlets over hotels for the flexibility. A small study desk and chair near a window or corner instantly attracts long-stay bookings. Add a plant or lamp for extra vibe.
5. A TV Stand with Storage
Choosing a TV stand with cabinets or drawers steps up the game significantly. A neat entertainment unit keeps the living space organized and gives guests access to their Netflix, YouTube, or cable subscriptions.
We fitted a floating and stylish TV stand in a shortlet, and you will love the “minimal, clean design.” This TV stand not only gives the apartment a polished, intentional feel—not but it is built with the layout in mind — stylish, strong, and smart.
6. Statement Accent Pieces
Shortlets thrive on aesthetics. Don’t shy away from adding accent chairs, decorative mirrors, side tables, or wall art. These are the little things that make your apartment look premium in photos and attract high-paying guests.
6. Multipurpose Storage Furniture
Shortlet guests often come with luggage, so offering smart storage solutions like ottomans, benches with compartments, and wardrobes with hangers will score you major points. It keeps clutter out of sight and gives your apartment that hotel-level organization.
7. A Functional Kitchen Cabinet
Whether it’s a kitchenette or full kitchen, the cabinets should be modern, clean, and organized. Avoid cheap, weak boards that swell with moisture. Choose laminated wood, MDF, or hardwood finishes that handle Nigerian humidity and still look premium.
8. Bedside Tables and Lamps
You will be amazed how little details like bedside tables and lamps make your space feel intentional and functional. Guests love convenience, and having somewhere to place their phone, glasses, or a book next to the bed makes a huge difference. A bedside lamp also adds a soft mood that guests will love.
We made a pair of fitting bedside tables that we delivered with the beds. This added that luxury hotel touch, making guests now drop compliments like “better than Radisson.”
These pieces were crafted to make the room feel more complete and deliberate. Trust me, guests notice the attention to detail.
At CMC Interiors, we craft bedside pieces that match your bed, while giving your clients the 5-star feeling on a 3-star budget.
9. Outdoor Furniture (If Space Allows)
If your apartment has a balcony, backyard, or rooftop, a small bistro set or patio chairs can add so much value. Guests love sipping wine or coffee with a view, and this also boosts your appeal on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.
Your Furniture Is Your Marketing Tool. In the world of shortlets and Airbnbs, furniture isn’t just décor—it’s a sales tool. Guests scroll through hundreds of listings, and what stops them is how inviting, cozy, and stylish your space looks. Investing in the right furniture means:
- Higher ratings
- Better reviews
- More bookings
- And repeat guests.
So, whether you manage one apartment or a full portfolio, these essentials are non-negotiable for standing out in Nigeria’s booming shortlet market.
At CMC Interiors and Furniture, we don’t just sell furniture—we curate comfort, luxury, and durability, all tailored to fit your apartment’s size, theme, and target audience.
Want to get started? Let’s show you some of our latest completed shortlet projects.
Need help choosing the right furniture for your Airbnb? Contact us for full consultations.
